DIXON, CA – Altec Industries, joined by Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E), hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony at its new “green-focused” manufacturing facility April 22 in Dixon, Calif.

The facility features state-of-the-art sustainable construction, exceeds Title 24 energy and lighting codes, and will allow Altec to expand the development and production of its “Green Fleet” utility vehicles, according to the company . The new plant was made possible through PG&E’s purchase agreement with Altec for its green fleet bucket trucks, creating more than 150 jobs in the heart of PG&E’s service territory.

“Our partnership with PG&E to develop ‘green fleet’ vehicles for use in their utility operations was the key factor behind our decision to locate our new plant in Dixon,” said Altec CEO Lee Styslinger III. “As we move forward, we anticipate that even more new jobs will be created to meet the additional demand from our various utility and fleet partners. We are excited about expanding our capabilities and presence in California to better serve and support the growing needs of our customers on the West Coast, including PG&E.”

The Green Fleet vehicles manufactured by Altec do not require the engine to be idling for utility crews to operate the bucket and other onboard equipment, which offers several key benefits, according to the manufacturer.

First, the reduced noise lets crew members communicate more easily, improving safety. Quieter operation also allows the vehicles to be operated at extended hours that previously would not have been feasible due to noise concerns. Since the engine does not continuously have to idle for crews to do their jobs, emissions, and vehicle operating costs are significantly reduced, which also extends vehicle life.

Currently, PG&E has 272 of these vehicles in its fleet, with plans to purchase an additional 281 by the end of 2014.

“We are delighted to partner with such an innovative and progressive company as Altec,” said Greg Pruett, PG&E senior vice president. “These vehicles, thanks to their green technology, are truly cutting edge and will bring great benefits for the environment and the more than 15 million Californians within PG&E’s service area.”